A deck board calculator is a valuable tool for any homeowner in the process of planning to construct a new deck. Deck Board Calculator This great online tool will help you to estimate how many deck boards are required for the project along with considering an opening between each of them.
These parameters allow for a detailed breakdown of materials to quickly be calculated into the calculator, therefore reducing waste and over-purchasing. Especially useful for DIY enthusiasts and pros, the tool makes planning easier, saves time, and improves accuracy in deck construction projects.
Whether you’re building a small patio or an entire outdoor living space, a deck board calculator is the must-have resource for successful project planning and budgeting.
How to Calculator deck board?
If your deck is 20 feet long and 16 feet wide, the total area is 320 square feet.
20 ft (length) x 16 ft (width) = 320 sq ft.
When building a deck, consider the size of your backyard or the area where you plan to build. Also, think about whether you’ll need stairs. Use our free deck designer to start planning and designing your perfect deck.
What Do I Need For Decking?
As you utilize our deck material calculator, keep these essentials in mind:
Joist Board Size: Our handy calculator computes the ideal joist board size based on your deck’s square footage, ensuring sturdy support.
Footer Depth: Ensure your footers delve 6 inches below the frost line specific to your area. This depth not only dictates concrete quantity but also determines the length of your footers, guaranteeing a solid foundation.
Frost Line: In colder climates, the frost line plunges to approximately 42 inches, while in warmer regions, it hovers around 12 inches. Double-checking local construction codes ensures accuracy, or lean on your trusted handyman for expert advice.
Footer Height: If your deck is raised more than 12 inches, adjust the footer height accordingly to accommodate the extra elevation.
Bearers: Our calculator suggests using two 2 x 6 boards bonded together with construction adhesive for bearers.
Flashing and Anchors: If your deck connects to your home, ensure you include the necessary flashing and anchors for secure attachment. Consult your handyman or local hardware store for guidance based on the calculator’s measurements.
Railing and Stairs: Decks over 18 inches high typically require railings and stairs to meet building codes. Plan ahead to either keep your deck low or prepare for railing and stair construction to avoid delays later in the project.
How exactly does the decking calculator work? – Example
If you’re curious about the math behind our deck cost calculator or want to crunch the numbers yourself, check out this example:
Imagine you’re planning a deck that’s 20 feet long and 13 feet wide. To find the deck’s square footage, just multiply those two numbers together:
20 feet x 13 feet equals 260 feet².
Let us compute the square footage of a single decking board:
8 ft x 0.5 ft is 4 ft².
How accurate is a deck board calculator?
A deck board calculator’s accuracy is determined by the precision with which the input measurements are taken. If you supply precise dimensions and spacing, the calculator will offer a somewhat accurate estimate. However, it is always a good idea to buy a little extra material to compensate for wastage and cutting errors.
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FAQs About Deck Board Calculator:
Can a deck board calculator consider different board orientations?
Yes, many deck board calculators allow you to select the orientation of the deck boards, either horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. This helps to provide a more accurate estimate of the supplies required.
Can I use the calculator for different types of wood or composite materials?
Yes, deck board calculators can be used on a variety of wood and composite materials. However, depending on the properties of the material you’re working with, you may need to alter the settings or inputs.